Having undergone basic combat training, joined the Kotelawala Defence Academy as a cadet, graduating with a BSc in electrical engineering.

8 Squadron, flying both transport and combat missions in Cessna 150, Harbin Y-12, Hawker Siddeley HS 748, SIAI Marchetti SF.260, FMA IA 58 Pucará, Beechcraft 200, Antonov 32 and C-130 Hercules.

He holds a Master of Science in Defence Studies in Management from General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, a Master of Science in Military Operational Art from the Air University in Alabama, a Master of Arts in International Security and Strategy from King's College, London.

He holds a Master Green Rating and a civil Air Transport Pilots Licence (ATPL).

Rajapaksa married Inoka Kamani Alwis and the couple has a daughter and a son.

He won the Commander's Cup Golf, Eagles' Challenge Trophy, in 2021.